Emotional and physical safety

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Дежурная консультация (телефонная консультация и прием врача ночью и по выходным)

Адрес Marburger Kai 51, 8010 Graz
Время работы: по рабочим дням с 19:00 до 07:00 утра
По выходным и праздникам — круглосуточно
Тел. 1450 или 141

If you are experiencing emotional abuse and physical blocking (being physically prevented from leaving) by a person with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), it is essential to prioritize your safety and well-being. Here are key steps from both a psychological and legal perspective that you can take to protect yourself in Austria.

1. Psychological Perspective (Emotional and Mental Safety)

  1. Acknowledge the Abuse
    Emotional abuse and being physically blocked are serious forms of abuse. Recognize that you are not at fault and that you deserve to feel safe and respected. People with BPD may have intense emotional reactions, but that does not justify abuse.

  2. Set Clear Boundaries

    • Establish firm boundaries regarding your personal space and the right to leave a situation.
    • Communicate these boundaries clearly when both of you are calm, e.g., "If I feel overwhelmed, I will step outside to calm myself down."
    • If boundaries are repeatedly violated, it may be necessary to distance yourself or end the relationship.

  3. Use De-Escalation Techniques

    • Avoid engaging in arguments during moments of heightened emotional intensity.
    • Use calm, neutral language and avoid criticizing, blaming, or escalating the situation.
    • If possible, remove yourself from the situation, even temporarily, to avoid being trapped.

  4. Create an Exit Strategy

    • Plan a strategy to exit the space if you feel physically blocked.
    • Keep your phone accessible in case you need to call for help.
    • If possible, avoid staying in places where you can be physically cornered, such as small rooms with only one exit.

  5. Seek Emotional Support

    • Talk to a psychologist, therapist, or counselor who specializes in abuse and trauma.
    • Support groups for those in relationships with people with BPD can provide emotional validation and coping strategies.

2. Legal Perspective (Physical and Legal Protection)

If you are being physically prevented from leaving a space or subjected to emotional abuse, you have legal options under Austrian law. Here's what you can do:

  1. Call the Police (Emergency Line: 133 or 112)

    • If you are being physically prevented from leaving or feel threatened, call the police.
    • Physical blocking can be classified as unlawful restraint (Nötigung) or coercion under Austrian criminal law (Section 105 of the Austrian Penal Code).
    • When the police arrive, provide details of what happened and request a "Betretungsverbot" (ban on entering the residence).

  2. Apply for a Restraining Order (Schutzanordnung)

    • You can request a restraining order (also known as a "Schutzanordnung") through the court.
    • This order can prevent the abuser from contacting you or entering specific areas where you live or work.
    • The court will review your case and, if justified, issue a ban that is enforceable by the police.

  3. File a Criminal Complaint (Strafanzeige)

    • If physical blocking or emotional abuse continues, you can file a criminal complaint with the police or a public prosecutor (Staatsanwaltschaft).
    • Under Austrian law, emotional abuse may fall under psychological coercion, and physical blocking could be considered unlawful restraint.
    • Provide as much evidence as possible (e.g., messages, witness testimony, or police reports).

  4. Collect Evidence

    • Keep a log of incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions of the abuse or physical blocking.
    • If possible, take photos or videos to document injuries or physical restrictions.
    • Keep screenshots of threatening messages or any written form of abusive communication.

  5. Contact a Lawyer

    • A lawyer who specializes in family law, domestic violence, or criminal law can help you understand your rights, file legal complaints, and seek protective measures.
    • Free legal aid services are often available for victims of domestic violence.

  6. Contact Support Services

    • Austria has support centers for victims of domestic violence. The Violence Protection Center (Gewaltschutzzentrum) provides free support and guidance for those affected by domestic abuse.
    • Contact the Austrian Women's Helpline (0800 222 555), which operates 24/7 and provides assistance in multiple languages.

Summary

If you are facing emotional abuse or physical restraint by a person with BPD:

  • Prioritize your physical safety — call the police if you feel trapped or threatened.
  • Set clear boundaries and create a plan for safe exits.
  • Use legal tools such as restraining orders or criminal complaints to prevent the abuser from continuing the behavior.
  • Document evidence and seek legal and psychological support.

Both psychological support and legal action are critical. Abuse, regardless of the abuser's mental health condition, is never justified. If you’d like more details on how to navigate any of these steps, I can offer more specific guidance.

Help centers in Graz

Zebra - Intercultural Center of Counseling and Therapy Center (Granatengasse 4/3. Stock, 8020 Graz)

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